Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

“You shouldn't be here, mouse.”

“You think I care?”

“You should, I could still get you sick.”

A pause, “I talked to the Alchemist and he said that you're no longer infectious.”

“Contagious. He said I was no longer contagious.” Lucio comments with a chuckle.

“You're not that either. So?”

“So what?”

“Can I join you? I brought a book and fresh baked cookies.” She was rocking back and forth on her heels, being careful not to tip the tray.

“Yes, mouse you can join me.”

Mouse or Stella was Lucio and Claudia's younger sister. She was an orphan the pair adopted on a job. Stella however did look more Claudia than Lucio. Mouse had soft copper hair with hazel blue eyes but like Lucio she was an omega.

Two weeks ago, while at a routine checkup the doctor discovered something horrible. Lucio was suffering from the early stages of the petrification disease. The disease had taken root in his eyes and within a month he would be blind; in two months he would be dead. Unfortunately for him there was no cure.

The symptoms started out small; headaches, blurred vision, sensitivity to light, and the like. It was only when the scales started to form over his iris and the boils began to grow on the sides of his eyes did he truly accept his fate. Claudia and Stella could not. They didn't want to lose their brother. The pair searched high and low for a cure, with Stella finding it. Thanks in large part to Antonia. Stella had gone crying to the older alpha about what was going on.

Antonia took pity on the young omega and told her about the gold coin fruit. Using the fruit and bribing an alchemist for help, Lucio had his cure. With two drawbacks. The first one being he had to stay at the hotel. He needed to take the medicine once a day for a week and two his eyes had to be wrapped up in bandages, and changed once a day. His eyes were draining fluids as the medicine worked to cure the illness. It was gross and thankfully Polendina didn't seem to mind helping them.

Lucio smiled as Stella settled next to him. The tray with the book was on the nightstand as she kicked off her boots and pulled the book over. Her jacket was gone, probably in her room. Lucio made sure she was all tucked with the quilt Carlo and Romeo gifted him, the extra plush pillows were a gift from Sophia and Pino, a porcelain black cat, fox and mouse stood guard on the night stand. They had been gifts from Izzy. Claudia gifted him a large pile of records and audio books.

“What book did you pick?” Lucio asks. He could smell her scent of fresh picked lavender and vanilla as she curled up next to him.

“Pino recommends Alice in Wonderland. It's supposed to be really good.” She tells him.

“Sounds good. Are you joining us sister?” Lucio asks. He smelled her approaching, the scent of champagne and oranges filled the hall and then his room.

Claudia smiled at the pair as she closed the door halfway. “I was merely coming to check on you, gatto.”

“The more the merrier, volpe.” Lucio tells her with a smile.

“Please join us.” Stella asks. “It'll be so much more fun.”

“How am I to deny such a request?” Fox asks. She carefully removed her jacket, vest and boots, before she slid onto Lucio's other side. “Alice in Wonderland, what an interesting choice.”

“Pino thought Lucio could use an escape.” Stella tells her.

“He's not wrong. I'm going crazy here.” Lucio whines.

“Patience brother, patience. We can't rush your treatments.” Fox soothes. “How about this, once you're well, why don't the three of us go to the beach?”

“That sounds lovely.”

“Of course it does. Now mouse, would you kindly start reading?” Claudia asks as she stole a cookie.

Stella nodded her head as she opened the book.

‘CHAPTER I

Down the Rabbit-Hole

Alice was beginning to get very tired of sitting by her sister on the bank, and of having nothing to do: once or twice she had peeped into the book her sister was reading, but it had no pictures or conversations in it,

‘And what is the use of a book,' thought Alice `without pictures or conversation?'

So she was considering in her own mind (as well as she could, for the hot day made her feel very sleepy and stupid), whether the pleasure of making a daisy-chain would be worth the trouble of getting up and picking the daisies, when suddenly a White Rabbit with pink eyes ran close by her.

There was nothing so very remarkable in that; nor did Alice think it so very much out of the way to hear the Rabbit say to itself,

`Oh dear! Oh dear! I shall be late!' (when she thought it over afterwards, it occurred to her that she ought to have wondered at this, but at the time it all seemed quite natural); but when the Rabbit actually took a watch out of its waistcoat-pocket, and looked at it, and then hurried on, Alice started to her feet, for it flashed across her mind that she had never before seen a rabbit with either a waistcoat-pocket, or a watch to take out of it, and burning with curiosity, she ran across the field after it, and fortunately was just in time to see it pop down a large rabbit-hole under the hedge.’

“Is she really going to follow the rabbit down?” Lucio asks his sisters.

“Seems like it.” Claudia tells him.

‘White Rabbit checking watch

In another moment down went Alice after it, never once considering how in the world she was to get out again.

The rabbit-hole went straight on like a tunnel for some way, and then dipped suddenly down, so suddenly that Alice had not a moment to think about stopping herself before she found herself falling down a very deep well.

Either the well was very deep, or she fell very slowly, for she had plenty of time as she went down to look about her and to wonder what was going to happen next. First, she tried to look down and make out what she was coming to, but it was too dark to see anything; then she looked at the sides of the well, and noticed that they were filled with cupboards and book-shelves; here and there she saw maps and pictures hung upon pegs. She took down a jar from one of the shelves as she passed; it was labelled

`ORANGE MARMALADE', but to her great disappointment it was empty: she did not like to drop the jar for fear of killing somebody, so managed to put it into one of the cupboards as she fell past it.

`Well!' thought Alice to herself, `after such a fall as this, I shall think nothing of tumbling down stairs! How brave they'll all think me at home! Why, I wouldn't say anything about it, even if I fell off the top of the house!' (Which was very likely true.)’

Stella suddenly stopped reading, which made Lucio panic. He frantically tried to reach out for her. A hand was placed on his wrist, followed by a soft rumble.

“She fell asleep, gatto.” Claudia tells him gently. “Poor little, mouse. She hasn't been sleeping well.” The book fell to the floor with a soft thud, as she mumbled something in her sleep.

“Is it because of me?” He whispers as to not wake Stella.

“Yes. She's been up late each night making sure you are alright.”

“She shouldn't have to do that.”

“I know that, you know that. But, Stella is stubborn and she worries. You're our brother after all.”

“I know. So are you going to wake her?”

“Hmm? Oh no. I dare not wake a door mouse. Besides, I'm getting tired myself.” Claudia tells him with a yawn. She strode over to the light switch and turned the lights off. The bed dipped as she came back over.

“I don't have much of a choice do I?” Lucio asks his sister. The older omega was pinned between his two sisters.

“No.” Claudia says she's pulled a blanket up. “Good night, Lucio.”

“Good night, Claudia.”

End of line

Chapter Text

Hotel Krat was seen as the shining jewel of the city. It was what tourists saw when they arrived and when they left. The hotel was connected to several key areas of the city, hosted many wondrous events and so many amenities. For the locals it was a sanctuary. Antonia had a big heart and loved having the many citizens of Krat come and relax.

Carlo often came to spend time with Romeo away from the watchful eyes of his father, Pino enjoyed the large collection of books the hotel had to offer. Pino would often come in and read to the children of both the city and the guests. Sophia could relax without the pressure of being perfect, the Brotherhood used the hotel to arrange jobs and check on clients, Red Fox came and went enjoying the spa, Black Cat discovered a needle point group that met up at the hotel once a week. And there was Stella.

Stella worked at the hotel library. She did that between going to jobs with Jacob, her siblings, and friends. She found a sense of joy in her work and Antonia enjoyed her company. The older alpha enjoyed the company of all the young pups that came and went. With many coming to her for advice or seeking her wisdom. The o alpha found it sweet; did her best to help.

It was a peaceful and quiet yet cold day in Krat. That was often the case when it rained. The rain had started early in the morning and kept up well into the afternoon. Guests were milling about the hotel, finding entertainment as they did. Antonia was doing her rounds when she stopped and smiled.

Lounging on a couch close to the fireplace was Jacob and Stella. Stella was sitting up right, on the couch. Her jacket and boots off to the side. Jacob was laying on top of her. His mask, scarf and jacket hanging up by the fireplace drying off from the rain. His head was resting on her stomach, his legs stretched out and hanging ever so slightly over the edge, with his arms wrapped tightly around her middle while her book was perched on his head. It appeared that Jacob was fast asleep. Antonia couldn't help but smile at the sight. There was so much trust between the duo.

Stella looked up from her book. “Hey aunt Antonia.” She softly greets. Jacob let out a soft grunt, followed by a low rumble. She responded with a soft purr.

“Are you two doing alright?” She asked her voice just above a whisper.

“Yea. Jay came back from a job, he was tired and I got trapped.” She explains with a smile. She wasn't really trapped, Stella could have gotten up at any time. Her heart was too big for her to just up and leave. From what the alpha knew, Jacob and his family have had job after job. Working hard to provide for themselves and to keep there district running.

Antonia smiled and gave a soft chuckle. “I will have someone bring warm drinks for you both. And a blanket.”

“Thank you aunty.”

“You're very welcome dear.”

An hour passed without much of a hitch. Guests were discovering new hobbies, enjoying the live music thanks to Carlo and Pino stopping by, the kids were hanging off every word from Romeo who was telling them stories. A couple of hours later, Izzy swung by. By then Romeo, Carlo and Pino were putting on a small play for the kids. Izzy grinned as she went to find her brother.

Stella was still reading, as Jacob clung to her. Izzy started to softly laugh. “He looks so comfy.” She whispers, Stella raises an eyebrow. “It would be a shame if he woke up.”

“You wake him. I will tell Enzio that you painted his bucket pink, and you used to catch rain.” Stella warns as she runs her hand through Jacob’s hair.

“You wouldn’t dare.”

“Try me.”

Izzy puffed up her checks with a slight pout. “I hate when you do that. I needed Jay's help with something.”

“What's wrong?”

“A John has been getting too rough with the girls. Bruises, broken wrists, and one girl had to get stitches. Madam Moze came to me asking for help. Jay likes going after those guys.” Izzy explains.

“What a piece of shit.” Stella hisses, as Jacob grunts. “Jay might be unavailable, but I think I know someone who can help.”

“Who?”

“Claudia. She hates those types of guys. She's at the apartment.”

“Thanks Stella.”

“Welcome, and have fun.”

Izzy giggled as she left. “I will.”

End of line

Chapter Text

Claudia woke to the crackling of the P.A system and to the bitter cold of her room. What was going on this time?

‘Attention citizens of Rose Street. During a routine inspection of the gas lines, a leak was found. For your safety the gas was turned off. We apologize for the inconvenience this will cause. The gas will be turned back on in the morning. This message is set to repeat.’

What followed was a series of yelling, screaming, cries and what sounded like something being thrown. Late fall in Krat was unbelievably cold and bitter. The days were fine, but once the sun set it was a different story. Claudia wrapped herself up in a blanket as she sat there for a moment or two before there was a knock on her door.

“Hey Fox. Lucio and I are going to camp out in the living room.” Stella tells her. There was shuffling behind Stella, and a grunt.

Claudia chuckled. “That sounds like a wonderful idea, mouse. I'll start a fire once I get out there.”

“You're the best sister. Bring as many blankets as you can carry.” Lucio tells her.

The apartment the siblings shared was modest. It had three bedrooms, one master bathroom( which belonged to Claudia but was shared by Stella.) a second bathroom, a living room and kitchen that doubles as the dining room.

Claudia left her room, arms full of blankets and pillows, Lucio and Stella were busy. The pair pushed the couches out of the way, stacked the coffee table on top of a couch, moved the nice chair out of the way and started building a nest. Wordless she handed Lucio her supplies and got to work on the fireplace. She piled wood and old papers high, and set it blaze. With the gate in place the living room started to feel warm.

The alpha took a step back, as she watched the pair work. They laid out the foundation of the nest, followed by a few layers, adding in pillows, and quilts last.

“Is that Jacob's jacket?” Claudia asks, as she spotted her own, Lucio and Stella's coat as well.

“It smells like him.” She proudly tells her sister. The jacket was laying under where Stella was going to sleep. “Having it helps me sleep.”

“It's extra comfort.” Lucio chimes in with a smile. Claudia had to remind herself many times that her siblings didn't start our life the same as she did. Lucio was born into the slums a bastard made by her father. He crawled his way up to become a Stalker. Stella was an orphan, found barefoot, cold, dirty, skinny, wearing rags and being freshly branded. The scar that marks neck was a reminder of her dark past.

“I often wonder why you smelled like that coniglio in the morning.”

Stella chuckled, as she settled down on Claudia's left side as Lucio settled in on her right. As the sole alpha of the house, Fox ran hotter than her siblings. “He's practically our brother in law.” Lucio jokes.

“The Brotherhood are our in-laws.” Claudia mutters. Stella let out a sleepy grunt as turned her back to her brother and sister. Lucio let out a yawn as he settled on his back. “Good night Stella, Lucio.”

“Night, Fox, Night Cat.”

“Good night Mouse, good night Fox.”

When morning came, the fire had died but that was fine. The heat had returned in the middle of the night. Claudia however could not get up. Stella had sprawled herself across Claudia. The omega shares Fox’s pillow with one arm and leg tossed over her sister. It was rather funny. Lucio was laying on his belly, with his arm and leg over his sister. Neither sibling looked ready to get up. But that was fine, there was no rush to the day.

End of line

Chapter Text

“Gentle, there we go.” Stella whispers as she gently laid Jacob down.

“Stella? How is he?” Carlo asks with a grunt. “Almost there, you got this.”

“Still out cold. I don't like this.”

“Fuck.” Romeo hisses as Carlo (best he could) and Pino helped inside the shack. “Stella, your leg.”

“I know, it's just not important.” She snaps with a weak growl at Romeo. “I'm sorry.”

“We get it.”

“How did this happen?” Pino whispers, running a bloody hand through his hair.

The answer was simple: the Alchemist's asked them. An apprentice came to the hotel looking for them; his boss had a job for them. Go to the Barren Swamp ravine , clear out a small group of

Carcasses and gets paid. He never mentioned the infected bear.

The group was able to clear out the old shanty town with no issues. Thanks to Pino legion arm aegis. But then they got to the cave on top of the cliff. A few human-like Carcasses lingered in the mouth of the cave, easy enough. That was until they heard the bear. It was horribly mutated and infected by whatever the Alchemist's gave it. The worst part of it hit hard and fast.

The first one down was Romeo. He was blocking a series of swipes when the bear grabbed him by his right leg and bit down hard. The bones made a sickening sound as his bones snapped like twigs, as blood came gushing out of the animal's mouth. Carlo stabbed the bear in the back, it dropped the blonde and started attacking Carlo. Carlo put up a good fight, managing to injure the bear, before getting jumped. There was one human-like carcass left.

It ambushed Carlo, he got out of the way of the Carcasses which allowed the bear to grab him. Pino quickly killed the Carcass, not before the bear bit down. Carlo let out an ear piercing scream as his forearm broke. The bones made a sickening sound as they snapped like twigs, blood gushed out of the bear's mouth. Stella and Jacob took that chance to stab it on either side. The bear let out a cry of pain as it dropped Carlo. Carlo hit the ground hard, as he went to Romeo’s side. The pair tried in there haste to splint there broken arm and leg.

The monster swiped at them, getting Stella in the leg. She didn't stop as she blocked, paired and ducked. The blood from her wound made the ground under her slippery, one false step and she was down. Bracing for the attack she closed her eyes. However she didn't get hurt. Jacob did. The bear's claws cut through his leather jacket, vest and shirt. Blood sprayed out of the wound, and Pino used that as his chance to cut the bear's head off. The group limped out of there.

Under the dim light of the lantern, Stella winced. Jacob had thankfully passed out after getting hurt. His jacket had been turned into a pillow, as she removed the black rabbit mask, scarf, and vest. His entire right side housed five deep, and jagged gashes.

Dried blood crusted the edges of the shirt, small trickles of blood came out of the wounds. What made her wince was the sight of his organs. The gashes were deep enough to show off the organs but it didn't look like he had internal injuries. Using her canteen she cleaned off some of the blood as she used her shirt to make a shift bandage and tied it up with his scarf.

“You're going to need this.” Romeo whispers as she zips up her jacket. Romeo has ripped off his sleeves; one had been ripped into stripes to splinter his leg while the other was for her leg.

“Thanks. Do you need any help?” She whispers. Pino was assisting Carlo in finishing to splint his arm

“I'm good. Take care of yourself.”

With a nod she looked at her leg. Encompassing the front and sides of her left leg were five jagged claw marks, looking into the cuts, she saw her femur. Dried blood coated the edges of her pants as fresh blood slowly oozed out. The sides of the wounds were turning a lovely shade of red. Wincing she poured water onto the wounds, hoping to flush them. Using a Romeo sleeve and a sleeve from Pino her wounds were treated.

“We need help.” Pino softly declares. Carlo moved to sit next to Romeo, as the blonde held him. “I need to head back to the train station.”

“Not alone you're not. I'll go.” Carlo tried to get up winced.

Stella rolled her eyes, as she helped Jacob drink some water. “I'll go with Pino. Dante, Enzio and Izzy should be at the town hall, I'm positive they'll come and get us.”

“Stella, that's a bad idea. You're hurt just like us.” Romeo points out.

“Unlike you and Carlo all four of my limbs work. We don't have many options.”

Carlo bit his bottom lip. “She's right. The two of you can run back, call and wait for help.”

“It's not a good idea.”

“We don't have many ideas, love.”

“We'll be quick and I'll make sure to barricade the doors.” Pino tells him with a smile.

“Don't get hurt.” Romeo requests. “Pino here, it’s not much but it should help.” He tossed the younger twin a few legion magazines for his arm. Pino nodded and used them to recharge his arm.

“We'll try. Try and get some rest.” Stella requests with a gentle smile. She knelt down next to Jacob and kissed his forehead.

***********************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************

Outside the pair barricaded the front doors. As Stella stood on the platform watching a crows pick out the eyes of the Carcasses. One of the crows looked at her, an eyeball hanging from its beak. Her heart and blade( curved dancer's blade) felt heavy.

“We could ask your siblings for help.” Pino suggests, as they climb up the ladder.

“Claudia and Lucio are busy.” She tells him. “Lucio picked up a job from a client, and Claudia is visiting her parents.”

“Her parents? I thought they didn't speak?” He asks. Pino stopped and drew his blade. In front of them were a pair of malfunctioning butler puppets. One was missing his head and the second one was his arm.

“She has to have dinner with them once a month.” Stella tells him. She blocked and parried an attack from the headless butler. “She hates going.”

“Have you met them?” Pino asks as he cuts down one armed butler.

“No,” Stella tells him as she cuts the headless puppet in half. “They've never asked to meet me or Lucio. Lucio is Claudia's half brother. Her dad cheated.”

“Fuck really?”

“Yea. Cats mom was some hooker or something, he never specifies what she did. Their dad never acknowledged him or me. I don't care.” She shrugged. As a few legless white puppets crawled out of toxic water.

“That's rough.” Pino says blocking the puppets with shields.

“That's life.”

The legless puppets were a tough match, they hit hard but were slow. Thankfully they took the puppets out, and kicked them back into the water. The water splashed and landed on Stella’s leg. She winced but ignored it. They kept moving forward hoping to avoid any more trouble.

“Shit, Pino.” She yells right as a male Carcasses emerges from the toxic water. Stella had just enough time to guard. The Carcasse slashed and yelled, as she was knocked back closer to the water, the water splashed and landed on her wounded leg. Stella saw an opening and cut the monster down. Not before a second one grabbed her and tried to pull her into the water. She let out yelp, as Pino cut the Carcasse hand off, followed by its head.

“You okay?” He asks. Stella gave him a shaky thumbs up. The pair kept on walking, dispatching puppets and carcasses alike. They finally came to a cave with a stream of toxic water, small fire and piles upon piles of puppets and puppet parts.

Stella's leg buckled, and she went down to one knee. She wasn't doing so well. Her skin felt hot and clammy, it was getting harder to breathe. She admitted defeat and sat by the fire.

“Pino,” She calls out. The makeshift bandages were soaked through with blood and water. She didn't want to think about how the wound looked. “I can't go on. I'm sorry. Go on without me.”

Pino let out a string of curses. “Stella, I can't do that.”

“I'll be fine. You're almost at the entrance anyway.” She says with a chuckle. Pino shifted his weight from foot to foot. He nodded his head before leaving her. She let out a breath as Pino left her. With a weak smile she closed her eyes, waiting.

Pino ran to the mouth of the cave, almost getting hit by a puppet. It was badly damaged and a malfunctioning police puppet. Its police baton was crackling with electricity. His shield was up right as it raised its baton. The attacks were hard and heavy, the young alpha was knocked backwards by the hits. Pino scowled as he was unable to find an opening.

The puppet let out a sound as it glowed red. Pino guarded, but watched as its head was cut off. The blade embedded itself into the rocky wall above where the head was.

“There you are.” Dante (Eldest of the Black Rabbit Brotherhood.) says pulling his great sword free. “I found Pino.”

“About damn time.” Enzio (Eccentric) calls out, as he came up with Izzy(youngest). “This place is awful and depressing.”

“What do you expect from a puppet graveyard?” Lucio adds adjusting his spear.

“A cheerful place.” Izzy jokes with giggles. “Hey Pino.”

“I'm so happy to see you guys.” He tells them with a smile. Pino quickly ran through what happened. Lucio ran ahead after hearing about Stella. The rabbits and Pino ran past the siblings to grab Jacob, Carlo and Romeo.

Back at the shack the Carcasses were back. Pino let out a hiss. Dante placed a hand on his shoulder and gave him a nod. Dante, Enzio and Izzy cut a bloody blue path to the shack. It seemed they made it in time. There were claws and tool marks on the walls and doors of the shack.

“Hey guys.” Carlo weakly greets. Dante nodded his head as he went to his brother's side. Jacob was still passed out, his skin ashen and his breathing shallow.

“Let's go.” He grunts as he picks up Jacob. His brother was cradled in one arm, with his sword over his shoulder.

“Up we go.” Enzio says help Romeo up. “There we go. What's the plan?”

“Izzy take point, Pino take the rear, Carlo, Enzio and Romeo behind me.” Dante tells them.

“Yes, Dante.”

The hike back was slow and steady. Thankfully their path was clear of puppets and carcasses. They made it back to the train station, Lucio was holding a sleeping Stella. Neither brother said anything as they headed to the hotel.

******************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************

Sophia was seated on the beach at the station. She felt something was wrong, when Pino told her about the job. Her gut feeling grew worse as the hours slowly went by. Knowing she couldn't handle the terrors of the swamp she asked the brotherhood and Lucio to go and help. The train pulled up a few minutes later and Sophia stood.

“Pino.” She whispers. The younger twin rushed off the train and hugged her. The blue haired omega let out a soft purr as her scent of roses and lilies settled him. “It's alright.”

“There hurt, Soph.”

“You did everything you could. Everyone's alive because of you.” She soothes. Pino gave her a small smile as he kissed her. Lucio came walking off with Stella in his arms. He locked eyes with Sophia who nodded and headed down with the brotherhood behind him.

“Thanks Soph.” He whispers. His scent of pine wood and blueberries had a sour smell clinging to it. “I need a bath, a hot one.”

“I understand. Why don't I join you? We can continue with The Wizard of Oz. I'll have Polendina bring up some chamomile tea and cookies.”

“That sounds wonderful. I just-” He let out a whimper.

“I know. Come, it's getting late.” Sophia gently took his flesh hand, as they went into the hotel.

End of line

Chapter Text

Polendina had run a bath for Pino and Sophia. Steam gently rose from the water, as it smelled of peppermint. On the sink was a tray with tea cups, cookies and a book. Pino sat on the toilet with a towel over his lap. Sophia worked with ease and gentleness to remove his legion arm. He winced when the arm was removed and set to the side. His hand went to cover this scared shoulder.

Pino had lost his arm from below the shoulder at eight. He, Carlo and there father were at the beach when a shark attacked him. Pino got away but lost his arm. His father and Venigni made him several new arms. The scars were nasty, deep and jagged marks. Pino looked away when Sophia saw the scars.

“Pino.” Her voice was gentle and sweet. There was never any judgment in her voice. “There is nothing to be ashamed about. I love all of you.”

“I know.” He whispers. It was the truth, she loved him for him not because his father was important. Pino eased himself into the bath, as Sophia settled in so her back was resting on his chest. A cup was brought to her sip on, as Pino leaned back. Allowing the peppermint oils and Sophia scent ease the tension in his shoulders. The book was brought over, and the omega's warm voice filled the room as she read.

‘When Dorothy was left alone she began to feel hungry. So she went to the cupboard and cut herself some bread, which she spread with butter. She gave some to Toto, and taking a pail from the shelf she carried it down to the little brook and filled it with clear, sparkling water. Toto ran over to the trees and began to bark at the birds sitting there. Dorothy went to get him, and saw such delicious fruit hanging from the branches that she gathered some of it, finding it just what she wanted to help out with her breakfast.

Then she went back to the house, and having helped herself and Toto to a good drink of the cool, clear water, she set about making ready for the journey to the City of Emeralds. Dorothy had only one other dress, but that happened to be clean and was hanging on a peg beside her bed. It was gingham, with checks of white and blue; and although the blue was somewhat faded with many washings, it was still a pretty frock. The girl washed herself carefully, dressed herself in the clean gingham, and tied her pink sunbonnet on her head. She took a little basket and filled it with bread from the cupboard, laying a white cloth over the top. Then she looked down at her feet and noticed how old and worn her shoes were.

“They surely will never do for a long journey, Toto,” she said. And Toto looked up into her face with his little black eyes and wagged his tail to show he knew what she meant.

At that moment Dorothy saw lying on the table the silver shoes that had belonged to the Witch of the East.

“I wonder if they will fit me,” she said to Toto. “They would be just the thing to take a long walk in, for they could not wear out.”

She took off her old leather shoes and tried on the silver ones, which fitted her as well as if they had been made for her.

Finally she picked up her basket.

“Come along, Toto,” she said. “We will go to the Emerald City and ask the Great Oz how to get back to Kansas again.”

She closed the door, locked it, and put the key carefully in the pocket of her dress. And so, with Toto trotting along soberly behind her, she started on her journey.

There were several roads near by, but it did not take her long to find the one paved with yellow bricks. Within a short time she was walking briskly toward the Emerald City, her silver shoes tinkling merrily on the hard, yellow road-bed. The sun shone bright and the birds sang sweetly, and Dorothy did not feel nearly so bad as you might think a little girl would who had been suddenly whisked away from her own country and set down in the midst of a strange land.

She was surprised, as she walked along, to see how pretty the country was about her. There were neat fences at the sides of the road, painted a dainty blue color, and beyond them were fields of grain and vegetables in abundance. Evidently the Munchkins were good farmers and able to raise large crops.

Once in a while she would pass a house, and the people came out to look at her and bow low as she went by; for everyone knew she had been the means of destroying the Wicked Witch and setting them free from bondage. The houses of the Munchkins were odd-looking dwellings, for each was round, with a big dome for a roof. All were painted blue, for in this country of the East blue was the favorite color.’

Pino let out a soft sound as he washed Sophia's hair. Sophia let out a soft purr as his fingers massaged the shampoo in. It was moments like this that Pino enjoyed. Just the two of them, no one else. Once her hair was washed Sophia helped Pino wash his hair and body. His body held a thick layer of grim, mud and blue blood. They drained the tub, and retreated back to Pino room once dry and clothed. The tray was placed outside the room with an empty plate and cups.

The pair lay on the bed, with Pino resting his head on Sophia's lap. She was reading the rest of the chapter.

“Soph?”

“Yes?”

“I-I-”

“Would you like for us to spend the night with Carlo and Romeo?”

“Yes. I'm just worried for them. What if they need something?”

“I understand. I would have been worried if you didn't want to.”

“Thanks for being so understanding.”

“You're welcome. I take it, you want to go now?”

“Yes, please.”

Sophia nodded her head, as they collected a few items before heading to Carlo and Romeo's room.

*********************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************

Meanwhile in Stella's room, she is taking a much needed bath. The water smelled of chamomile, with the stream rising off the water. The doctor said Stella would be fine, she would just need to clean it and bandage it and take antibiotics twice a day for a week. Claudia sat on the toilet watching her sister clean the wound. She was frowning as the water turned from clear to murky. Tears were wealing up in her eyes as she cleaned.

“It's okay.” The fox says gently. Claudia took hold of her wrist. Stella looked to her sister in shock and fear.

“What?” She whispers as a few tears slipped through. Claudia wiped the tears away.

“It's okay not to feel okay.” Claudia clarified for her. “You went up against an infected bear, and won. Yes you got a little banged up, but you're alive.”

Stella pulled her knees to her chain. “I was scared. I didn't think we were going to make it out of the cave alive. And there was so much blood.” She softly tells Claudia. “Why was there so much?” She whispers.

“That happens. Being afraid means you're alive, it means you survived. We all get scared. Lean back, I'll wash your hair.” Claudia tells her. “You kids did your best on the Intel you had. How did you hear about this job?”

Stella started it purr as Claudia messaged the shampoo into her hair. “Some apprentice Alchemist. He came to us at the opera house, told us about the job. Said he would pay double for body parts.”

Claudia frowned. She was going to talk to Dante and his contacts about this, and have a chat with her contacts as well. This job seemed fishy. “Hey Fox, how is Jacob doing?”

“He's fine. The doctor cleaned and dressed the wounds and gave him an IV. He's going to be on the same antibiotics as you.”

“That's good to hear. I was worried.”

Claudia smiled. “I'm sure if the roles were reversed he would be asking about you as well.”

“He would. Hey Fox.”

“Yes, topolino?”

“I don't want to be alone tonight. Can you and Cat stay the night?”

“Of course we will. It would be horrible of us to leave you alone tonight. The Brotherhood are camped out in Jacob's room. The doctor told them he would be out till tomorrow.” The tension in her shoulders eased out, and she relaxed a little.

Meanwhile, Pino and Sophia made it Carlo and Romeo room. It wasn't such a tight squeeze with the twins in the middle, and their lovers on either side.

“You know what this means right?” Carlo asks. He was cuddled up close to Romeo.

“What does this mean?”

“You won't be able to play the Phantom for the whole run.” He says with a big grin on his face.

“Fuck.” Romeo hisses out. “My fans are going to be pissed off.”

“Romeo, I'm so sorry. I know how excited you were.” Sophia says.

“It's fine, it's fine. There is always the next play.”

“That's the spirit.” Pino tells him with a smile. “Carlo-”

“Don't you dare apologize. Nothing that happened today was no one's fault. We're alive thanks to you.”

“See?” Sophia says in a gentle tone. Pino nodded as the pair cuddled up.

“Get some sleep. It's been a long day.” Romeo hums as he pulls Carlo close.

End of line

Chapter Text

Pino didn't want to go to the beach. He heard how dangerous and wild it was. The older kids at school told him about the sharks and the other dangerous types of fish and creatures that lived in the murky waters. One hot and sunny summer dad, Geppetto declared they were going to the beach for a family outing. Carlo was excited, Pino was not. Pino pitched a fit but in the end he was dragged to the beach.

The beach was packed full of families. Kids young and old ran in and out of the water, played games on the black sand, or built castles. Puppets stood by with umbrellas, teaching young kids to swim or keeping people out of danger. Vendors yelled to bring in customers. Kids eagerly begged there parents for money.

Carlo wasted no time and went right for the water. Pino stuck close to their dad, playing in the sand. At some point Carlo dragged him to the water. The water was rough and violent as it crashed against the sand. But it was also clear and so blue, Pino could see the bottom.

That should have been the first clue something was wrong. The moment he started to relax and enjoy himself he saw it. A fin. It was gray with scars criss crossing over it.

“What is that?” Carlo whispers as he watches the fin. No one on shore knew that it was a shark. As sharks hadn't been seen in Krat for years.

“I don't like this.” Pino whispers. The fin started swimming closer to the boys. Fear gripped Pino's heart as he started to swim away. The fin got closer, and soon a mouth of teeth grabbed his left arm.

He didn't remember screaming, crying, or yelling. He just remembered the pain and the smell of copper. It was the worst pain that he had ever felt before. Ihe shark's teeth dug deeper and deeper, tearing through skin, muscle, tissues, veins and bone. The air and water stopped smelling of salt and soon smelled of blood. By some miracle someone got the shark off of him and he was carried to shore. Pino vaguely remembered the cries of terror, the heavy sour smell, the looks of fear and sadness. He heard his father calling out to him, before he passed out.

When he next woke up, he was in the hospital. It wasn't his father he saw. But Antonia, Carlo and Romeo. What was worse was his arm from the shoulder down was gone. It was painful to train himself to use the legion arms, and to ignore the phantom pain. When he left the hospital he left with a fear of the ocean and of sharks.

Pino anxiously paced the length of the forgotten garden. The gold coin fruit tree shone and hummed. The tree seemed to be singing a gentle tune to help calm him down. The prank had gone too far, too much, it was too much. The shark was too real. He stopped, digging his fingers into his shoulders, the pain felt fresh. He could feel the teeth of the shark digging into his arm, ripping his arm off. He felt his knees buckle as he fell to the ground. Tears welled up in his eyes, as his fingers dug deeper into his flesh.

That was how Sophia found him. Weeping under the Gold Coin Tree. She went to his side, and hugged him tightly. She purred softly, allowing her scent to calm and ground him. After a few minutes, he calmed.

“Soph, I'm sorry.” He whispers with a slight hiccup. Sophia wiped the tears as they fell.

“You have nothing to apologize for.” She softly and gently tells him. “They crossed a line.” There was no doubt about it.

“Are they still here?” Sophia was ready to respond, but didn't. Romeo and Jacob came out to the garden, each carrying a limp body.

“There not dead.” Jacob quickly tells them. “We just knocked them out.”

“Why?” Pino asks. But he knew the answer.

“We're taking them down to see the Brotherhood. Seems these two don't know that there is a line you don't cross when pranking someone.”

“My siblings like you after all. If you want a turn throwing balloons filled with mystery liquids, you can.” Jacob offers with a devilish smirk. With that the pair were gone. That got a smile from Pino.

Pino let out a rumble as he hugged Sophia. The pair looked confused as they heard screaming. The third prankster came running into the garden. He looked afraid, as he tripped and fell into the ground. His hair was a mess, clothes ripped and torn, and he was sporting a black eye and bloody lip.

“What's the matter?” Stella asks as she stalks over to him. Her knuckles were bloody and bruised. “A big strong alpha like you, running away from a meek and small omega.”

“You crazy omega bitch.” He spites out. Stella let out a tsk.

“That's just plain rude. And here I was going to let you live. Oh well.” She mutters while shaking her head. “Hey Carlo! I found the last one, he's all yours.”

“Thanks Stella.” Carlo tells her as he stalks over. “Come along now, we're not done chatting.”

The guy let out a scream as he was dragged back in. Stella gave a bow as she followed after Carlo.

“Don't kill him!” Pino yells after them. Stella pops back up and gives him a thumbs up.

End of line

Chapter Text

Pino was laying face down in bed. Sophia told him that her parents wanted to meet him. The four of them would be having dinner at The Rose Garden. One of the fanciest restaurants in all of Krat. The place had a prefixed six course meal. He was doomed, so, so, so doomed.

“What's wrong with him?” Stella asks as she takes a bit of her apple. The trio were watching him from the doorway.

“Valentinus and Isabella want to have dinner with him and Sophia.” Carlo tells her while shaking his head. As he steals her apple to take a bite. She glared at him. “And now he's panicking.”

“Huh.”

“Is that all you can say?” Pino asks them. “Huh?”

Romeo rolled his eyes as he sat next to Pino. “Pino you're over thinking it. You're the son of the head of the Workshop Union. You're in a better position than say me or Stella.”

“He's got a point. Why are you stressed about this?”

“You mean besides the fact that Valentinus is the head of the Alchemist's? Or that Isbella runs the Rose Estate? They are the most powerful people in the city.”

“And there are still people.” Carlo points out with a shrug.

“You guys suck, you know that?” Pino mutters into his pillow . “I don't even know how to use all that fancy silverware.”

“Our dear father didn't think it was important.” Carlo bitterly and dryly tells him twin.

“He might not have, but Claudia taught me.” Three sets of eyes were on Stella. “What? Claudia comes from a rich and powerful family. She thought it would be a good idea for me to know how to use that shit.”

“And you would be willing to teach me?” Pino asks her.

Stella shrugged. “Sure, but I want something in return.”

“Of course.” Carlo mutters as he keeps eating the apple. “What do you want?”

“Hmm don't worry about that. Meet me in the dining room in an hour.”

“I have a bad feeling about this.” Romeo tells Carlo and Pino.

************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************

Friday came and Pino was nervous. Sophia had told him that her parents would love him. Stella’s voice rang in his head from all of the training they did.

“Look I’m going to tell you what Claudia told me, the rule of thumb is to work your way from the outside in, or from the outermost utensils inward towards your plate, as each course is served. You can’t growl, snarl, slurp, chew with your mouth open, sit up straight, keep your answers short, and most all be polite.” She tells him.

The pair arrived shortly after Valentinus and Isabella did. Once drinks had been ordered, so did the small talk.

“Pino, I heard from Sophia about your training with Lea. How is that going?” Isabella asks in a gentle and warm voice. Right as the soup arrived for them to start on.

“It's going wonderfully. Lea is a great teacher.” He tells her.

Isabella smiled as she slowly sipped her wine. “Lea is a good girl. Strong, tough and independent. I know she will train you into a proper stalker.”

Sophia squeezed his hand under the table and gave him a warm smile. “I was talking with Lorenzo about your engineering skills. Have you ever thought about working with him?” Valentinus asks.

“Kinda. Stalker training is difficult but I do enjoy it. Working on puppets and legion arms is more of a hobby, sir.” Pino explains.

“I see. How does your father feel about it?”

“He is indifferent. He was very hands off with Carlo and myself.” Pino lies. Geppetto spent more time working than he did raising his sons. The twins spent more time at the hotel or with Lorenzo. Pino was fine with that.

“I see.” Valentinus says with a hum. “It seems that you're doing well for yourself.”

“Thank you, sir.”

“Valentinus, Isabella is that you?” A cold yet familiar voice rings out. Sophia's hand tightened around Pinos. Her scent went sour.

“Simon? What the devil are you doing here?” Valentinus asks, with a raised eyebrow. Simon strolled over to the table with a triumphant smirk on his face.

“I was in the neighborhood and thought why not stop by and say hello.” Simon tells him. “Why don't I join you? Since I'm here and all.” Before protest could be made he was sitting down with the family.

Pino had to do everything in his power not to snarl and growl at the man. “I have been meaning to ask Valentinus, have you found a stubble mate for Sophia?” Simon asks as he nurses his wine.

Isabella cleared her throat. It was no secret that Simon looked down on omegas. “Simon, that is why we're having dinner. Sophia is being courted by Pino here. He is one of the sons of Geppetto.”

“Is that so?” There was a look of hate and disgust on Simon's face. It was barely hidden by his wine glass. “I thought Geppetto had one son, Carlo. He's training under Lea.”

“We both are.” Pino tells him. Venom stepped into each word he spoke. He had to take a deep breath to settle himself before he snapped.

“I wasn't talking to you boy.” Simon hisses out.

“No, but you were talking as if he wasn't here.” Valentinus tells him. There was the barest hint of a growl in his voice.

“Of course my deepest apologies.” Simon tells Pino. “I do wonder if the boy is a good match.”

“Why do you say that?” Isabella asks him. Sophia was shooting her mother's pleasing looks. She wanted Simon gone.

“Look at him. If I was him I would have married Sophia. And yet the boy is stringing her along.” Simon points out. “It's as if he doesn't love her.”

“Pino does love me. Just the other day he gave me a rose.” Sophia tells Simon.

“What's so special about a single rose?”

“He made it. The petals have small pieces of ergo in them. When the sun hits it just right the crystals shine creating rainbows.”

“That's beautiful and romantic.”

“You're quite the clever lad.” Pino did his best not to blush at the complaints given. Simon said nothing.

The rest of the meal came, and charter died with it. At some point during the meal, Simon reached out to try and touch Sophia. The omega leaned back and away. Pino shoots the older alpha with a harsh glare.

“Mother, father, would it be alright if Pino and I take a walk in the garden, once dinner is done?” Sophia asks the pair.

“Of course dear.”

“That's a splendid idea.”

“Thank you.”

Simon scowled as he ate. Dinner was shortly completed and the couple headed for the garden. Simon bid his farewells to Valentinus and Isabella as he followed after the couple. However, the entrance to the garden was blocked by two members of the Black Rabbit Brotherhood. The Eldest and Youngest.

“What are you two doing here?” Simon growls.

“Us? We were asked by Miss. Sophia to keep the trash out of the garden. Isn't that right brother?” Youngest asks with a grin. The Eldest let out a grunt.

“Trash?” Simon sputters. “Do either of you know who I am?”

“Yea and what of it? Miss. Sophia doesn't want you here.” Youngest tells him. “Now piss off.”

“Or what?” Simon asks, taking a step forward but quickly takes a step back. The Eldest slammed his great sword into the ground. If Simon hadn't moved back his foot would have been cut off.

“Or that.” The Eldest tells him. “I take it you want to leave here with everything intact?”

Simon took the threat and left. The siblings looked at each other. “Sophia did say he would try and follow them.” Youngest mutters. The Eldest patted her on the head.

“We did what was asked of us.”

“Yea. So we stay here till they get back.”

“That's the plan.”

End of line

Chapter Text

Stella wasn't born into the high society of Krat. No, she was born in the slums. And for the first six years of her life she didn't have a name. Her parents called her It. In the slums omegas were treated poorly, seen as burdens to the family for being worthless and weak. Her parents never saw her as a person, so when her younger sister was born her time was up. One day a man came and gave her parents a large sum of money for her. Her parents greedily took the money, saying they could escape and start anew. With a daughter who could provide for them. The man dragged away, she didn't remember screaming or crying, she was just quiet.

When the man branded her it was when she made noise. She screamed, cried, begged all of that. The man sneered and went to cover her mouth, but Stella bit him hard. She got away and the man and his men chased after her. She remembers how cold and dark it was, snow was starting to fall. It was then that she ran in Claudia and Lucio. The pair were getting done with a job, they saw what was happening and killed the men. No questions asked at the time. Lucio pegged her as an orphan and the duo thought best to adopt her. Claudia named her Stella right there and then.

Stella's day started normally, till it didn't. Her neighbor, a young omega just had her first pup asked if Stella was free to watch the baby. Her husband was at work at the factory and she was being requested at the seamstress store where she worked. Stella thankfully didn't have plans and agreed to watch the pup. In the end Jacob and her went to the park.

“Can't believe you got roped into babysitting.” He comments. He didn't make a move to remove his arm from her shoulders.

“I don't mind. She's nice and sews my clothes when they get ripped.” Stella explains as she moves closer to his side.

“Right.” Jacob grumples with a frown. It was a brisk day in Krat. A few clouds drifted by in the sky, butterflies and birds flew by. A few squirrels dotted across paths, dogs barked and tried to give chase. Families were strolling as kids played tag. Pups were taking there first steps or trying to say their first word. The couple were passing by the entrance of the park, when they saw them. A trio of upper class women.

“Ugh the slum rats are breeding.”

“Rats breeding more rats. All they do suck away and steal our resources.”

“My father believes they should all be killed.”

The ladies weren't ladies but a trio of young teenage girls. They were laughing and giggling behind their fans. Jacob let out a warning growl as the girl growled back.

“How dare you.” One of the girls growls as she storms up to Jacob. She was shorter than Jacob. With light blonde hair; soft red streaks and hazel blue eyes. She wore a soft pink gown with white ribbons on it. She was jabbing her fan into Jacob's chest. “Vile, ugly, rat! Do you have any idea who I am?”

“No, and I don't care. Back down and out of my face. Or so help me.”

“What can you do! I'll have you arrested.”

“Good luck with that.” Jacob says with a smirk. One of the girls ran to grab a human and puppet police officers.

“What is going on here?” The officer asks, looking at the group. Stella was standing behind Jacob, her body in front of the stroller.

“Well you see officer.” The blond girl started but was quickly cut off by the officer.

“Jacob? Stella? Is that you?”

“Joey? Oh hey Joey, fancy seeing you. How's your mom?” Stella asks, stepping out from behind Jacob.

“She's good. Really want to treat you and siblings to a home cooked thank you dinner.”

“We would love to. Hey Joey. If you don't mind, could you escort these girls out of here.” Stella asks.

“No!” The blond shrieks. “Get them out of here. These rats don't belong in the park. And frankly I don't think you should be here either.”

“Miss,” Joey calmly tells her. “Do you know who they are? No, that's a shame. This gentleman is Jacob, a member of the Black Rabbit Brotherhood, Stella's older brother and sister Red Fox and Black Cat.”

“I'm sorry what?” One of the girls whispers. “They can't be. Their friends are Carlo, Pino and Sophia.”

The blonde girl sputters as Jacob and Stella smile at her. “I-umm I meant no disrespect.”

“Of course you didn't.” Stella says with an eye roll. Stella was about to say something when she was hit by the heavy scent of daisies and sunflowers. Stella let out a whimper, as she backed away. It was then the girl's scent hit Stella; it was gin and cranberries. Her stomach twisted itself into knots. Her fingers are going to the choker.

“LILY! What in the world is going on?” A woman yells as she comes running over. Her heart was beating rapidly in her chest, her body was shaking. The woman was short with soft copper hair and green eyes, she was on the heavy side, and wore a light green dress, with silver trim.

“No, no,no,no,no,no.” Stella chants, her stomach twisted and felt hot, bile rose into her mouth. Jacob looked at her, she had gone pale and was sweating.

“You did what?!” The woman yells as she looks at Jacob and Stella. “Apologize now.”

“What the hell is going on?” Jacob mutters, “Stella?” She was gone leaving Jacob with the baby. “Fuck.” He didn't care what was going with Lily as he needed to find Stella.

End of line

Chapter Text

When Fox and Cat discovered the pair dating, they had one rule. Don't hurt their sister, for she is a gentle soul. Their one requirement. And he had broken it. Jacob quickly went to the hotel with the baby and politely asked if Sophia and Pino could watch the pup after giving them the summary of events. The pair were quick to agree, even going so far as to ask Lea, Carlo and Romeo for help. It was a couple of hours before anyone found her. A friend of Carlos saw her heading to Venigni works. She was frantic and upset. Jacob, Lea, Carlo and Romeo wasted no time in going there.

Claudia and Lucio would have been told if not for a very important mission. The archbishop requested they expel a pack of wild rabid wolves that were infected with some mystery virus. The pair, along with Veronica and Alidoro we're dealing with the wolves.

“What did this bitch say?” Lea asks. The workers parted like the sea for them. It wasn’t everyday she came for a visit. And if she was here something bad was going to happen.

“They called us slum rats.” Jacob bitterly tells her. “Rats breeding more rats.”

“That's horrible.” Carlo growls. “Why would she even say that?”

“Many upper class citizens look down on the poor. They see them as a drain on the city.” Romeo explains. “Not many kids in the slums make it.”

“Neither Jacob nor Stella…”

“She was born in the slums.” Jacob tells them. “Fox and Cat adopted her.”

“I didn't know. None of us did.” Lea whispers.

“She doesn't like to talk about it. And I don't blame her. Hold up, she's up in uncle Venigni's office.”

Jacob dashed up the stairs with the three alphas behind him. He didn't waste time knocking as the door opened with a slam. Venigni nearly jumped out of his skin by the sudden noise.

“Oh starlight.” Jacob coos as he rushes over. Stella was sitting on the carpeted floor, hunched over and dry heaving into a trash can. Veigni sat next to her, his jacket covering her as he rubbed her back.

“You scared me. But, I am thankful you all are here. Stella came in upset and crying, I couldn't get much out of her. When she started to throw up I sent Pulcinella to fetch her and myself some green tea with ginger and honey.” Veigni explains to the group. Lea, Carlo and Romeo soon joined everyone else on the floor. There were looks of concern and worry.

Jacob had gently coaked her to let go of the trash can so he could hug her. Stella's face was red with tears streaks, her eyes were red and puffy from the crying. There was blood and bits of flesh under and on her nails, she had scratched her neck raw. The area the choker normally curved was scratched red and raw, with trickles of blood staining her shirt.

“Shit, Stell talk to me. What's wrong?” Jacob pleads as he tries to wipe the blood off her neck. He winced when he saw the branding. Lea tapped him on the shoulder while holding a first aid kit. She didn’t look at the mark on her neck.

“She's-she’s-she’s my mom.” Stella hiccups as she hides her face in Jacob’s chest.

“What?” Carlo whispers looking between Romeo, Lea and Veigni, “I thought you were an orphan.”

Jacob paused in cleaning her neck. “Don't tell me? Oh God don't tell me, please don't tell me.” There was panic and fear in his voice, as Stella didn’t say a word.

“Jacob? What is going on?” Venigni asks, looking between the two.

“I'm confused, what's going on?”Carlo asks, as Stella has settled down. Her face was red with shame.

“Her folks sold her.” Jacob whispers tucking hair behind her ear. “It's fucked up.”

“People do that? They just sell their own children?” Lea asks in disgust.

“I wasn't wanted.” Stella whispers, she has rubbed her eyes. “My parents didn't want an omega as their first pup, so they treated me poorly. I didn't have a name and I was often forgotten. Two years after I was born they had my sister who was an alpha. They were overjoyed about it. One day after I turned six a man came. He gave them a small fortune for me, and they were happy. After the man branded me, I started crying. He tried to make me stop, but I bit his hand. And that's when Claudia and Lucio found me.”

“What they did to you was horrible and disgusting.” Venigni with a slight growl.

“It's more common than you think. Oftentimes when an omega pup is born they are dumped at the churches or orphanages. In some cases like with Stella they are sold off.” Romeo tells him, bitten and sorrow laced his words. “Like I said, pups don’t often make it. And most would rather have a child they can use over a child who drains them of what little they have.”

“Just like that? How can the council allow this to happen?” Lea asks Venigni. The older alpha could only shake his head.

“Lea I truly had no idea this was going on. Children should never be sold.” Venigni tells her.

“It's just life.” Stella whispers. The ointment that Jacob used stung her neck while the bandages had small red spots. She just wanted to curl into a ball. Pulcinella arrived shortly with several cups of tea. When the tea was gone, Jacob opted to take Stella to the hotel. Lea left with her students behind her, but her hand was shaking. Not from fear but rage.

At the hotel, Stella lay on top of Jacob as he read. Her head rested right above his heart. She hadn’t said much since they started reading or since they arrived back.

“Do you still love me?” She whispers, with a sad whine.

Jacob let out a rumble. “Of course I do. Don't overthink it. Just get some rest.”

“Okay. I love you.”

“I love you too. Now what will Alice run into next?” He placed a kiss on her head, as he went back to the book in his hand.

End of Line

Chapter Text

Claudia let out a breath, she gently folded the letter and sent it down. The letter arrived without ceremony, but the name of the letter stuck Cecilia Volfe. Lucio pecked up from the newspaper as his sister took in several deep breaths. She rose, fixed her shirt and walked out. Lucio said nothing knowing better. When it came to Fox’s family it was always best to never get in the middle of it.

Claudia knocked once, then twice on Stella's door. She knew that omega wouldn’t respond to the knocks, so she let herself in. The foul smell of a post heat hit her hard, Fox wrinkled her nose. It smelled of sex, sweat, and desperation. Claudia left the door open, as she opened the window in the room the smell filtered out and Claudia could breath easily. Stella was laying face down in her bed, sweaty hair sticking to her back, and shoulder.

“Hello, mouse.” Claudia greets as she rubs her back. Her scent was all over the place. From outside she could hear alpha’s growling over the post heat hitting them.

“Hey, Fox. What's up?” Stella sleepy asks. Her face is still hidden in her pillows.

Claudia let out a sigh. “I received a letter from my mother today. She wants to meet for tea.”

“That's nice.”

“She wants to meet us for tea tomorrow at ten at the White Rose.”

“I'm sorry what?”

“You heard me.”

“Why? I'm like a stranger to her.” Stella comments as she lets out a whine.

“That may be true, but she knows of you. My mother values knowing all the latest gossip. So in short we will join her and we will have a nice time.”

“Okay.” Stella whines as she looks at her sister. Her eyes were bloodshot, had a thin layer of sweat on her face, and neck. They would be washing her bedding today, “Can I go back to sleep? I'm still tired.”

“Of course, mouse. I'll be back in a few hours.”

“Thank you.”

*********************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************

Cecilia Volfe did enjoy people watching. More importantly she loves people watching in front of the hotel. She was dressed plainly, as not to be seen or spotted. She was a lady of high society after all. It didn't take her long to spot her target. Strolling in while chatting with Carlo was Stella. And Cecilia dare say she could have been her own daughter. Same hair as her and Claudia the only difference being her eyes.

“Cecilia Volfe? Woof I'm sorry.” Carlo tells Stella as he shakes his head. “I've heard some crazy rumors about her.”

Stella stopped cocked an eyebrow as did Cecilia. “Oh? Do share.”

“Okay, so you know Alidoro? She was the first one to find out that he was almost killed by Parrot. The whole thing led to Parrot being sent to jail for his attempted murder.”

“Shit.”

“Cecilia found out and soon there was a petition to get Parrot banished from Krat and he was.”

“He deserved it, Alidoro is a hero.” Stella tells him as Cecilia nodded her head in agreement. “He’s one of the few that stands up to the crazy shit that Alchemists do.”

“Yea, he is.”

“I just hope I don't make a fool out of myself when I do meet her.”

“You probably won't. But if you do, it was so nice knowing you.”

“Fuck you.”

“That's why I have Romeo.” The comment got him the middle finger.

The pair departed as Cecilia followed Stella into the hotel. She found a hidden away table and watched her. She watched as the young omega set about organizing, checking out, settling fights and putting books away. At some point a member of the Black Rabbit Brotherhood showed up. Cecilia heard of them, a group of Stalkers that took care of the poor of Krat. But, why was one of them here now? She got her answer pretty quickly.

Stella perked up, as he was able to pick her into a tight hug; kissed her. They chatted and had lunch and he said he swing by later.

Stella seemed happier after he left. Cecilia hadn't been allowed to choose her husband, they had been arranged the moment they were born. Here it seemed that Stella and Jacob chose each other. That made the older omega smile.

“Excuse me dear.” Cecilia says as Stella looks up from her work.

“Good afternoon.” Stella greets warmly. “Is there anything I can help you with, miss?”

Polite and had manners, Claudia taught her well. “Oh no, I just wanted to say hi.”

“Alright, hello. If you need anything, don't be afraid to ask.”

“Actually there is something. You see, I'm having tea with my daughter and step-daughter tomorrow. I do not know what type of tea to order.” Cecilia tells her.

Stella let out a hum as she softly clicked her tongue against her teeth. “Personally, I enjoy a nice strawberry tea.”

“Strawberry?”

“The White Rose has a lovely strawberry and rose blend. Fruity and floral, I definitely recommend it.”

Cecilia gave a slow nod. “Thank you dear. I should be going.”

“Alright, have a nice day.”

“You too dear.”

The next day at ten am sharp, Stella and Claudia headed for the White Rose. Stella fidgeted in her seat as Cecilia joined them. She ordered a pot of strawberry and rose tea for them.

“Hello again dear.” Cecilia greets warmly.

“Umm hi again.” Stella greets, her tea was suddenly more interesting. Claudia shot her sister a look. “She visited me at the hotel yesterday.”

“Such a charming young lady.” Cecilia tells her with a smile. “You raised her right.”

“Thank you mother.”

“I heard an interesting rumor. That Lily Gray insulted Stella and Jacob.” It was an off the cuff comment, not meant to sting. She was fishing for information.

“Mouse? Is that why you had bandages on your neck?” Claudia asks. Her tone was soft, gentle. Her question was meant to understand not to hurt Stella.

“Yes. I ran into my mother as well.” Stella softly confesses to her sister. The bear hints of tears started to form in her eyes, “She didn't even recognize me.”

“If you want,” Cecilia starts to say as Fox was rubbing her back. “That woman Karen has been a problem as of late. I could ostracize her and Lily for a week as punishment.”

“You would do that? Why? You hardly know me.”

“Oh please dear, I know everything that goes on in this city.” Cecilia simply tells her. “You really think something like wouldn't get back to me? Being in high society is a real life version of chess. One wrong move and you're done for.”

“It's vile.” Claudia hisses out. “But, my mother is a skilled player.”

“They hurt me.” Stella whispers.

“I know. Let me do this one kindness.”

“I would appreciate it.”

“Good. Now no more of this doom and gloom. When can I expect a wedding invitation?”

Claudia nearly choked on her tea and Stella looked ready to sink into the floor.

End of line

Chapter Text

“Banned? What do you mean banned?” Karen asks with a slight whine in her voice. She was trying and failing to stay calm. The hostess at the door rolled her eyes. Lily was tapping her foot like a child.

“Mrs. Cecilia Volfe had banned you from the White Rose for a week.” She tells the pair. “Now if you'll excuse me, I have actual guests to seat. Hello and welcome to the White Rose.”

Karen let out a snarl as she and Lily moved to the side. This was the fourth establishment that told them the same thing. Cecilia Volfe had banned them for a week. But why did Volfe care?

“Now what?” Lily asks with a whine and pouting. She was far too old to be pouting like a child, but Lily was a spoiled princess.

“I don't know.” Karen couldn't understand what she did to upset Cecilia Volfe. She was the second queen of Krat high society with Antonia being the first queen. Everyone knew not piss either of them off. A pair of girls, Lily's age, saw them and started giggling. Lily demanded an answer as did her mother.

“You didn't hear? You're banned for insulting Mrs. Volfe's adopted daughter.” One of the girls tells them using her fan to hide her giggling.

“What are you talking about?” Karen growls out.

“The girl you called a slum rat, is Mrs. Volfe's adopted daughter.” The second girl tells her with a giggle. “Claudia adopted her.”

Karen and Lily blinked a few times in shock. Karen let out a snarl as she slapped Lily on the arm. “You just had to insult the girl.” She hisses. “And thanks to you were banned till next week.”

“How was I supposed to know? All rats look alike after all.”

“You could apologize.” The first girl tells them. “That is if you can find her.”

The two girls wished them a good day as they went inside. Karen stomped her foot, storming off. Lily took in a couple of deep breaths, as she went another way.

“I really don't want to apologize to that rat.”She whispers under her breath. If she wanted to fix this she would have to. However she needed to find the rat.

Finding her wasn't easy, but many in the city knew her. And several pointed Lily to Venigni Works. She didn’t care that the workers were staring at her, or how they whispered about her being here.

“Piccola stella, what brings you by today?” Veigni asks, sounding cheerfully and happy.

Lily could hear something rustling, “You haven't been taking breaks again. Pulcinella asked if I could stop by and force you to.”

There was pause before she heard sharp laughter. “Aww Piccola stella you truly are a saint.” He comments with a heart laugh.

“You would be the only one who thinks that. Anyway I'm off to go bug Carlo. With Romeo out of town, Carlo thinks he could sneak off to fix some puppets in the Barren Swamp….again. While, I might add that he's not feeling well.” She tells him.

“That boy is far too stubborn for his own good. Now go save the city's golden boy.”

“I'm going. Have a nice lunch, Uncle Veingi.” Stella left the office and stopped when she saw Lily. Stella cocked an eyebrow as she pressed lips into a thin line. Lily opened her mouth to speck but Stella pushed past her.

“Would you stop! I want to talk to you.” Lily yells as Stella takes the steps two at a time.

“I have nothing to say to you.” She tells her with venom lacing her words.

“I don't care, I need to talk to you.” Lily tells her. Stella stopped as Lily tripped over her own feet. The omega caught her, as she rolled her eyes.

“If you can walk and talk.” Stella says, shoving Lily back. Lily stumbled backwards but didn’t fall. The pair speed walked to the tram, Stella quickly set the destination to the Barren Swamp.

“How do you know Cecilia Volfe?” Lily asks as she sits down.

“She's Red Fox’s mother.” Stella says as she crosses her arms over her chest. “Fox is my sister.”

“There's no way you are Red Fox’s sister. Everyone knows Black Cat is her own sibling.” Lily says with a sneer.

“I am. Now what do you want?” Stella asks.

“My mother and I are banned from everything. Mrs. Volfe says it's for a week. A week!” Lily cries, as fake tears start to fall.

“And?”

“I don't even see why I have to say sorry. You're just some rat who tricked Mrs. Volfe.” She growls out, as Stella says nothing. The tram came to a stop at the swamp.

“That is why Cecilia did what she did. You are a spoiled brat who doesn't get that actions have consequences.” Stella simply tells her. “So what do you want from me?”

“Accept my apologies and tell Mrs. Volfe.” Lily orders. Stella stood there drumming her fingers against the tram wall.

“No.” She says leaving Lily alone. “You don't mean it. And until you do, go fuck yourself.

Lily sat there shocked as she let out a growl. Before the doors to the tram could close, she chased after Stella.

End of line

Chapter Text

Claudia softly humes as the bathroom fills with steam. The shower tap was turned all the way up, the door closed, along with the window. She sat on the toilet, soothing a bundle that was clinging to her as the bundle wheezed and coughed badly.

“Shh your alright mouse. Let the steam help your lungs.” Claudia soothes as she rubs her back.

“It hurts.” The pup whispers, face hidden in her sister’s shirt.

“I know Bella. The steam will help, I promise.” Stella gave a weak nod. “Once Gatto comes home, I'll make us some ginger and honey tea and soup.”

“That sounds good.” Stella weakly tells her.

Claudia never expected this to happen. But winter in Krat was awful. The cold, the cold winds and the bitter chill made the city freeze. No one dared to go out. Thankfully all the puppets in the city were winter proof, and took care of the city and made sure people stayed safe. However, this morning Stella woke to being sick. It was very clear that the girl was upset and scared, so the siblings did what they could. The fear and being ill caused her to throw up. Much to the shock and surprise of her siblings.

At some point in the morning, Lucio declared he was going out. He was simply running down to the bakery and he would be right back. The Black Cat bundled up and left. A few minutes after he left, Stella started coughing and wheezing. Not liking that, Claudia ran a hot shower to collect the steam. The steam seemed to help ease the coughing.

“I wonder what Lucio needed.” Stella asks, Fox. Her face was flushed, with sweaty strands of hair clinging to her forehead, she was also slightly pale.

“That is a good question.” Claudia humming got softer, just as Stella was dozing off, the door to the apartment opened and in strolled Lucio.

“Where did you go?” Fox asks as Lucio gives her a sheepish smile.

“I got some bread for the mouse.” He tells his sisters while rubbing the back of his neck.

“Bread?”

“When I was younger my mother used to feed me bread soaked in broth. Was supposed to help.” Black Cat explains. “I can take over if you want to make some soup.”

Claudia nodded her head, as she handed Stella over to Luico. “How are you feeling, mouse?” He asks as she lets out a whimper.

“Everything hurts. Don’t like it”

“I know, but you’ll be alright. Once you're better, why don’t we go to the library?”

“I like that idea.” She sleepily tells him. Lucio smiled as he shut off the shower. For now he would let her sleep, and then let her have something light to eat. She would get better and once she did, they could truly spend the winter together.

End of line

Chapter Text

Pino frowned as he looked down at his ticket. It was the worst time of the year for all Stalkers. The cave and mine rescue duo training sessions. And sadly no one could pick their partners. As each pair was picked at random. And unfortunately for Pino his partner was Lumacchio. The most annoying, self indulgent, egotistical person in Krat.

Carlo winced when he saw the name, as did Romeo, as did Jacob and as did Stella. “Tough luck.” Stella tells him with a shrug.

“Who did you guys get?”

“I got Dante.” Carlo tells him with a shrug. “He's going to be doing most of the work. And not talk to me.”

“I got paired with Lucio.” Romeo informs him. “I'm going to be doing most of the work with his help.”

“I got paired with Alidoro.” Jacob grumbles. “It's better than being paired with Veronique. I heard her and Izzy got paired up.”

“I got paired with Enzio.” Stella says with a sigh. “If he dicks around I'm punching him.”

“Be my guest. Hey, who did Claudia get paired with?”

“Hugo.” Stella tells him with a shrug. “He really wanted to be paired with Alidoro.”

“He's Doro's biggest fan.” Carlo says while shaking his head.

Pino flopped down onto his bed. “So I'm cooked? Everyone knows that Lumacchio is a dick.”

“Still not sure how he got made leader. So whose training where? I'm headed off to the old mines in the Barren Swamp. With Simon monitoring us.” Stella tells them.

“Old Ergo mine, and we got Lea.” Carlo groans. “She is not going to go easy on me or Lucio.”

“The sea cliffs, and we got stuck with Geppetto.” Romeo bitterly tells them.

“Old mine under the Barren Swamp. I think Sophia's dad is monitoring us.” Jacob tells them.

“Veigni works underground with Zio Veigni monitoring.” Pino tells them. “Tomorrow is going to suck.”

“Yes.” The rest agree.

************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************

Bright and early Pino reported to the factory. Veigni was waiting for him and Lunacchio. Veigni was standing there with a clipboard, and a stopwatch, next to him was Pulcinella. The puppet was holding a tray with coffee, doughnuts, scones, and small pies.

“Buongiorno Pino e signor Lumacchio.” Veigni greets warmly and cheerfully.

“Buongiorno Zio Veigni.” Pino greets with a yawn. Pulcinella offered him a cup of coffee with a doughnut. Pino said thanks as he nursed his coffee.

“Yes,yes good morning.” Lumacchio greets sounding bored. “What do we have to do?”

Veigni rolled his eyes as he looked down at this clipboard. “Good morning to you Lumacchio, leader of the Bastards and to you Pino. I welcome you both to the yearly team training session. In today's session you are being tasked with searching and rescuing a trapped worker, under the factory. Your goal to return unharmed with the worker, doing so you will pass. Be warned the path to the trapped miner is riddled with traps and angry puppets. Any questions?”

Lumacchio let out an exasperated sigh. “Yes. How long is this supposed to take? I have an important meeting with Veronique.”

Veigni rolled his eyes as he tapped on his clipboard. “It will take however long it needs to. Your session will begin in five minutes, please do any and all final preparations.”

“Yes, Zio.” Pino tells him. Veigni gave a nod as he took a coffee for himself. Pino found a spot to sit as he swapped his grinders around from his fire one to his electric grinder, making sure his sword was sharpened.

“Do you know something I don't know?” The older alphas scoff. He ignored Pulcinella who if he could would have rolled his eyes.

“Just prepping for any outcome.” He shrugs.

“And where did you learn that from?”

“Dante, Enzio, Claudia, Lucio, Lea, Veronique, Alidoro, Hugo, Stella, Romeo, Carlo, Izzy, Jacob…” He says tapping his finger against his face.

“Alright.” Lumacchio says cutting Pino off.

“Is something wrong signor Lumacchio?” Veigni asks. He was tapping his pen against the clipboard looking annoyed.

“No, not at all. Shall we start?” Lumacchio asks with a fake smile.

“Of course, please follow me.”

With Veigni blessing the odd couple was off. As the pair started their walk several old white puppets with a collection of weapons, started the attack. Pino grinned as he used the electric grinder, Lumacchio made a humph sound as he lunged forward. The pair were able to cleanly and quickly dispatch the puppets.

“Watch it.” Lumacchio hisses as he pushes Pino against the wall. A flaming ball made of old puppet parts came rolling down the tunnel. “Traps? Why are there fucking traps down here?”

“To make things more realistic?” Pino offers up with a shrug. “We were warned about the traps.”

“A sorry excuse of a trap.” Lumacchio mutters, he cleaned his blade off. “Stay behind me, I'll make sure there are no more traps.”

“What? Why?” Pino gasps, "We're supposed to be working together.”

Pino knew that Lumacchio was rolling his eyes behind the mask. “That legion arm, it's called puppet string correct?”

“Yea, what about it?”

“Use it to drag the puppets closer to us.” The leader orders. Pino rolled his eyes, but didn't make a comment.

Puppets were lining the tunnel, waiting to ambush them as they moved along. Pino used his legion arm to draw the puppets in, as Lumacchio dispatched them. Further up another flaming ball came at them. Lumacchio pushed and pressed them against the wall as it came down.

“Where the hell do these keep coming from?” Pino mutters. The only good part about it was that the ball took care of any remaining puppets.

“I suspect that a worker is sending them down.” Lumacchio comments with a head shake. “There is our prize.”

In front of them was a trapped puppet. Lumacchio pushed Pino forward. Pino frowned, as he shot the puppet string forward, using it he landed next to the puppet. With a grunt he lifted the puppet up.

“Good job, now let's get out of here.” Pino rolled his eyes. With a grunt he adjusted the puppet and they were off.

Midway down the tunnel they heard an odd sound. It sounded like scurrying as if something was following them. Lumacchio let out a hiss as he grabbed Pino’s hand and they were off. Behind them was a hoard of rats. The rats were the size of cats and they looked hungry.

“What the actual fuck?”

“Less talking, more running!”

Pino didn't have to be told twice as they ran down the tunnel, avoiding all sorts of dangers and traps. They made it back, with a proud Vengini waiting for them.

“I believe that you broke last year's record.”

“Yes, all thanks to those blasted rats.” Lumacchio mutters as he dusts himself off. “Now if either of you don't mind, I'm heading home. I will not be seen meeting with Veronique looking like this.” Dirt, grime and oil clung to his once white suit. With that he was gone.

“Rats? What rats?” Veigni asks, confused.

“You didn't know about the rats the size of cats?”

“No.”

Pino blinked a few times, “You got a rat problem.”

Veigni blinked. “I will get on that. I am very proud of you. You did better than I expected and you didn't kill your partner.”

“Thank you Zio. If you all excuse me I need a shower.”

“Of course. Come with me, you can use my private washroom.”

“Thank you.”

“You are very welcome.”

End of line

Chapter Text

Stella let out yawn, as she cracked her neck and shoulders. It was a brisk sunny morning at the Barren Swamp ravine. Beyond the path lay the old shanty town and Ergo mines. That is where her test with Enzio was going to be held.

“Why did this bloody test have to be early?” Enzio groans with a shiver.

“Because Simon hates you.” Stella dryly tells him. Down below she could clicking, and screaming. She didn’t want to think about what was in there.

“Can you say that?”

“Do you see Simon?”

“Good point. I'm going to check over my gear. You might want to as well, mouse.” Stella said nothing as she found a nice rock to sit on to check her gear. In the middle of this Simon and his bodyguard Laxasia arrived. No one dared to ask Simon why he had a bodyguard , not that many cared. Many did call Laxasia the dog of Simon.

Simon and his dog, stopped in between Stella and Enzio. He was carrying a clipboard, and a stop watch, while Laxasia had a pair of binoculars. He let out a cough, as he looked down at his clipboard.

“Good morning, my name is Simon Manus and I'll be your proctor today. I welcome you Stella Volfe and Ezio Rabbit.” Simon paused with a raised eyebrow as Enzio only shrugged. “In today's assignment you are tasked with the search and rescue of a trapped miner in the Ergo mine. You must make your way to the old mine, find the miner and bring him back to me. Your path forward will be riddled with traps and enemies. You have five minutes before the assignment begins.”

“Your brother is taking my last name.”

“Got it, no argument.”

Five minutes later, Stella and Enzio were headed down the path to the old shanty town. Enzio was chewing on a piece of jerky, when Stella stopped him. In front of them were carcasses.

“Shit.” She whispers in horror. “We're fucked.”

“What's wrong? Are those carcasses? Shit.”

“Yea,” Stella let out a sigh. “One wrong move with your fighting style could spell doom for you and me.”

“Yea, not good. How about this? I'll use my spear to block there attacks and you attack them with your sword.”

“That should work.” She says with a hum, as she glanced up at the caves. A cold shiver of fear ran down her spine. She could almost hear a bear from above them.

“Oh this where you kiddos got hurt right?” The alphas ask. “Fuckung bears.”

“Yea, fucking bears.” She whispers with a sigh. Enzio looked between Stella and the cave, he opened his mouth but closed it. He ruffled her hair which got him a scowl from the omega. Enzio twirled his spear around and held across his body. Stella drew her blade, right as a male carcass came charging at them. His hand was promptly cut off but his head joined him on the ground.

A second carcass was once a woman but now a monster came running at them, her claws sharp, she slashed and growled. Stella wasted no time in pricing the carcasses head with her sword.

“You know,” She says looking at the creatures. “These remind me of those dogs.”

Enzio let out a scoff, “Those bastard Alchemists have there hand in everything.”

“I don't- I hate it when you're right.”

“I know. We can worry about the implications later. We gotta pass this test.” Stella nodded her head as they kept on moving.

The shanty town was rickety, the platforms and buildings creaked and moaned as they fought and moved around the area. Stella went in to cut the head off a carcass that was hanging off the ledge. The monster let out a sound as it grabbed her ankle.

“Fuck.” She yells, as she was nearly dragged over the edge. She kicked the creature in the face, which got it to let go of her ankle.

“Oh no you don't.” Enzio yells, stabbing the monster's hand. The monster let out a howl of pain as it fell off and into the ravine.

“Thanks, Enzio.”

“Welcome Stella.” Grinning behind his bucket mask he ruffled her hair. She scowled as she swatted his hand away. Only, Caludia and Lucio could do that.

At last they arrived at the entrance of the mines. Enzio and Stella high fived as they entered the cave. They were making good time and just needed to save the miner.

Simon frowned as lowers the binoculars. “Something wrong, sir?” Laxasia asks. She was holding an umbrella over his head.

“They made it to the mines. I suppose I have no choice but to pass them.” Simon tells her as he gives them a check.

“They can still fail the next part.” Laxasia tells him.

“That they can.”

Enzio stabbed the first carcass that came charging at them. As Stella jumped out of the way of a rolling boulder that covered in sickly blue blood.

“Shit.” She wheezes. The cave was brimming with boulders, and carcasses. Up above she could just make out a miner puppet. “Looks like we need to go up.”

Enzio pulled his spear free as he cleaned the blade on the carcasse. “Looks like we need to be careful going up.”

“Yea. Where are these damn boulders coming from?” She asks cutting the arm off a carcass.

“Does it really matter?” He asks, blocking a second carcass that came charging at them.

“Guess not.” She admits with a shrug.

The pair slowly and carefully climbed up the path. Enzio pressed her and him against a wall as large boulders with dead bodies on came rolling down. The closer they got to the top, the more frequently the boulders and carcasses grew. Finally, they got to the top. Buried under some rubble was the miner puppet.

“Allow me.” Enzio says with a mock bow. Using his spear he leveraged the rocks as Stella pulled the puppet free.

“We make a pretty good team.” She says as the alpha hosted the puppet over shoulders.

“Yea we do. Come on, the sooner we get out of here the better. I don't know about you but I could use a hot meal.”

“Hot meal and your even hotter brother.” Stella says with a smile.

“What do you see in him?”

“He makes me laugh.” Enzio cocked an eyebrow but wisely chose to say nothing.

The pair rushed out of the cave only to be met with a small pack of infected dogs. The dogs were foaming at the mouth, the tentacles on there backs were squirming and oozing blue blood. Stella drew her blade,

“I'll cut us a path.” She tells Enzio.

Enzio tried to say something but she was rushing ahead. She sliced and diced the dogs into peices. Ducking and dodging out of the way of the tentacles. One of the dogs lunged at her, she pivoted out of the way, nearly falling off the ledge. Enzio let out a hiss as he drove his spear through its head, as he grabbed her hand.

“No one is dying today.” He tells her, as he hoisted her back up.

“Thanks Enz.”

“Welcome, come on.”

They thankfully made it back to the cliff with no more issues. Simon gave them an unamused look as he marked them as passing the test.

“You both did well. Congratulations.” Simon says with a bored tone.

Stella and Enzio high fived and left the Barren Swamp.

End of line

Chapter Text

“Youre going out of town?” Stella asks. She was in the middle of organizing the new books.

Pino rolled his eyes, as he leaned against the shelf. “The deadbeat asked if I could deliver a prototype to an old friend of his.”

“That doesn't sound too bad. What's the friend's name?”

“Yen Sid and he lives over in Fantasmic. Known as the city of dreamers. The best stories come out of the city of dreams.”

Stella winced. “It takes four hours to get there, you have to talk to the guy and then you have to take another four hour train back.”

“I know. So I was wondering if you want to come with me?”

“Me?”

“Carlo is busy with Lea and Romeo, Sophia has a ball she's going to with her mom, and Jacob is in the middle of his rut. Dad got us tickets for the five am train to Fantasmic tomorrow . We'll be there for nine, we find the guy, spend an hour, go shopping and come back.”

Stella bit her bottom lip. She hadn’t been out of the city before. “It does sound nice. And I've wanted to visit a new bookstore. Okay I'm in.”

“Good.”

Bright and early the next morning Pino and Stella were on a train headed to Fantasmic. The sky was just turning from night to day, as a light coat of rain corves the windows. Pino and Stella sat opposite each another with a small table between them. Pino had the box next to him with his jacket over it, while Stella had brought her brown leather messenger bag and coat. At this early hour they were alone. The train left the station on time,

“Have you ever left Krat before today?” Pino asks, as they slowly leave Krat behind.

“Never had the urge to.” She says with a shrug. “What about you?”

Pino let out a sharp breath. “The old man would often take me and Carlo on trips. Sometimes to see Yen Sid, sometimes to the family beach vacation house or sometimes to the countryside.”

Stella often forgot that Geppetto was a very rich man. At some point a woman pushing a cart with refreshments came in. She looked bored but still wore a smile. She stopped at their table. Stella grabbed a doughnut with some tea as Pino grabbed a coffee and scone.

“I didn't know your family had a beach vacation house.”

Pino took a small sip from his drink. “We haven't gone in a long time. Not since…” His gaze drifted to his legion arm.

Stella winced as she stirred in honey and milk. “Have you thought about going back?”

“Maybe. Might be fun for all of us to go.” Pino comments with a shrug.

“You don't have to go in if you don't want to.” She tells him. “The ocean is scary.”

“Don't I know it.” There was a bitter laugh as he said that.

The rest of the train ride was peaceful. Pino took a two hour nap, Stella read a new book and soon they arrived at the Fantasmic. The station was oddly busy at nine in the morning on a weekday. It made the young alpha nervous with how many people were coming and going. Pino let out a soft huff, as he grabbed Stella's hand.

“So we don't get separated." He tells her. She had to agree that was a good point. Outside in the fresh air, the pair found a bench as Pino fished a slip of paper out of his pocket.

“From the station take the first left down a side street that is filled with stores, go down that road, take the second right, and you should see a tower. Yen Sid lives in that tower.” He mumbles as he reads.

“Well at least we have some idea of where we're going.” Stella comments. Just like in Krat, they were in a plaza. On either side of the plaza were apartment buildings with stores on the bottom, there were several stalls dotting the area. And in the middle was a fountain in the middle, the fountain was that of a moon and stars. What got Stella was how bright and cheerful the buildings looked. Compared to Krat where the buildings were earth tones here they were bright and cheerful.

Pino rolled his eyes as he stuffed the slip back into his pocket. “Guess so, come on.”

The pair headed down the first street on the left and came to a long row of shops. Stella stopped when she saw an art store. The supplies in the window were screaming Lucio.

“Hey Pino.”

“Yea?”

“Why don't you go ahead and I'll meet you at the cafe over there.” At the end of the street was a small cafe. The umbrellas at the cafe had stars and moons on them.

“I don't know, Stell. Neither of us know the city very well.” He says with a frown. “I would rather we stick together.”

Stella rolled her eyes with a pout. “Pino, it's broad daylight, I know how to fight. I can handle myself.”

Pino let out a small growl. But Stella did have a point. She could handle herself. “Alright, alright. Look once you're done, go to the cafe. Please don't wander off. I'll try to come right back.”

Stella beamed as she hugged him. “Thanks Pino.”

“You're welcome. I'll be right back.”

“Take your time.”

Pino looked around and quickly scented Stella before heading off. Stella nodded her head as she went into the art store. Half an hour later, Stella was nursing a cup of tea as she waited for Pino. Pino came back looking like he saw a ghost. She opened her mouth to ask but he held up his hand, while shaking his head. He ordered a coffee.

“So what did you get?” He asks as the caffeine courses through his veins.

Stella grinned. “Okay so. I bought Lucio some new paints, brushes, a new journal and charcoal pencils. I also got uncle Vengini a new journal and pencils. I got Izzy and Claudia new perfume, I got Dante some new cologne, Jacob got some aftershave, I picked up a music box, and a couple of wind up dolls for Enzio.”

“Why?”

“He's banned from the Barren Swamp, and the stores that sell parts.” She admits sheepishly. “I also got Aunt Antonia a bottle of champagne. I picked up a new cookbook for Romeo and a new book for Carlo and a new brooch for Sophia.”

Pino let out a hum. The brooch in the box was made out white gold with several sapphires and diamonds in the wings. “Where did you get that? I want to buy Soph some matching earrings.”

Stella grinned. “I'll show you once our drinks are done.”

At the jewelry store Pino found a matching pair of white gold studs and a matching necklace. “This will look amazing on Sophia.”

“You got good taste. Unlike Jacob.” Stella says while shaking her head.

Pino let out a small chuckle. “His taste is awful. Didn’t he give you a blanket once?”

“Yea it was hideous. I keep it hidden under my bed. Don’t tell him.”

“My lips are sealed.” He said as he zipped his lips.

The clerk came back with a simple black box. “Will that be all?” She asks.

“No, that will be all.” Pino tells her. The clerk nodded her head as the pair left the store.

“You know,” Stella says as they walk back out to the street. “It's so weird not seeing puppets.”

“It is a little. But we're not in Krat, and they don't have any here.”

“I'm just so used to seeing them.”

Pino nodded his head. “Hey why don't we go and check out the sights?”

“That sounds like a great idea.”

The pair's day was spent exploring the city. They saw the sights, saw a play, saw street performers and ended the day at a nice restaurant. There train left promptly at eight pm. They had more bags than when they arrived, but we're happy.

“Mama, when are we going to be in Krat?” A child voice asks. Stella was lightly dozing as Pino was wide awake.

“We won't be getting to the city till midnight. Try and get some sleep.” A motherly voice responded.

“Is the city really filled with puppets? And they do all the work?” The child voice asks this time higher.

“Yes. No shush, some people are trying to sleep.”

“I'm sorry mama. I'm just so excited.” The child cheerfully tells the mother.

“I know, but try and get some sleep.”

Stella smiled at Pino. Pino shook his head while smiling. The train car went silent, as they chugged along in the dark. The train arrived in Krat at midnight. The mother and child( who was wide awake) shuffled out of the train.

“Mouse.” Claudia calls from the waiting room. Her sister was in her full Stalker uniform, behind her was Dante. Who was also dressed in full Stalker gear.

“Hey Fox, hey Dante. What are you doing here?” She asks, hugging Claudia. She let out a soft purr, as her sister gave a soft rumble back.

“Carlo asked me to escort Pino home.” Dante explains.

Pino let out a sleepy hum. “Thanks Dante.” Dante nodded his head. Stella handed over the bag of gifts for him and siblings. Dante let out a happy grunt but patted her on the head, as he and Pino left.

Claudia pulled Stella close to her side, as they left. “Did you have fun?” The alpha asks, as Stella let out a yawn.

“Yea, it was a nice city. Wouldn't mind going back for a day trip.” She tells Claudia softly purring.

“Day trip? That sounds like a nice idea. We should go together.”

“Yea we should.”

Outside the air smelled crisp with puppets working hard. Stella spotted the mother and child getting into a carriage. The child looked at Stella with big wide eyes as she and Claudia left. Stella gave the girl a small wave, as the four of them left. Back home Stella fell face first into her bed.

End of line.